Camping in Epping Forest

Tangled woodlands and forest trails lie within a tube ride of London.

95% (1101 reviews)

United Kingdom
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England
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Epping Forest

95% (1101 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Epping Forest

Community favorites in and near Epping Forest

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Freedom Farm Camping

Nice, quiet campsite. Easily accessible from east London/M11. We were greeted by Emma and David who were very friendly. We were given a private pitch in a small paddock beside the cattle instead of the main field. This was great for the kids to run around safely and play games. Lots of wildlife. We saw swifts, birds of prey and lots of butterflies, dragonflies, etc. No road noise or aeroplanes. Toilets were clean and close to us, but would have been a bit of a trek from the main field. We had a very nice time and would be happy to return.

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Great campsite, very easy from north London and lots for kids to do. Great to have the stream to play in. Would recommend.

Weekend Trip to Penn Meadow Farm

I had a lovely two day stay here. Was camping for some chill time and the countryside and views here are fabulous. There are two fields, one much bigger than the other. It was busy so I couldn’t find a space in the big field that was quiet and flat - a huge part of the field is on a slope and I don’t sleep well when rolling about! I went to the smaller field which was lovely and pitched up in the corner by the horses and with a view over the valley - lovely. One group of families who decided playing music at nightclub volume was a nice way to enjoy the beauty of the nature and peace here, but each to their own I guess. The noise was never loud late so well within the rules. The showers are lovely. Great to have a fire. I picked up an 8 mile Alltrails hiking trail from the campsite which was handy too. I would return. Lovely site which is managed with care.

Weekend Trip to Laleham Camping Club

Wonderfully quiet weekend (not school holidays). Great location for riverside walks, meadows, and top tier pub food at Laleham village at The Three Horseshoes. The staff were super helpful and facilities clean and easily accessed.

Claire

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Amazing trip😃 Hammocks were awesome even in the rain and the games were a great addition Bell tent with fire pit was so much fun for a girls night away and the bed was so comfortable Will be back again 👍

Weekend Trip to Rushbanks Farm Caravan and Camping

Great site clean well organised loved 11 pm Cut off and the river

1 night at The Meadow @ Waples Mill

Beautiful place with a remarkable host. I loved every minute.

Weekend Trip to Hook Farm Campsite

Great place with the basics- that’s all you need when camping. Lovely setting

Weekend Trip to Painters Farm Campsite

Fabulous campsite, lovely owners. Will definitely return! Xx

Elin

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

Lovely glamp/campsite with great amenities and close to Canterbury. We had a great time and our bell tent came with bed and bedding, lights, crockery, camp stove and kettle. Small kitchen on site with a shared fridge. Hot showers, fresh toilets. Tastefully done. Rustic but cute and fully functional. Would highly recommend. Loved the fact you can order logs, kindling, matches etc direct with your booking. We’ll be back.

Weekend Trip to Penn Meadow Farm

We had a great weekend on the campsite, beautiful setting, lots of space to pitch your tent and have a camp fire. Great pub just down the road, only negative was the toilet/ shower block was sometimes quite busy but other than that I’d highly recommend and will be returning again in a few weeks!

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

We had a great stay at Daisy May’s farm, met some other lovely families while we enjoyed our first camping trip as a family. Welcoming staff and friendly atmosphere. Lovely time seeing all the animals.

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

My family had a great time camping at daisy May's farm, this was our first visit and our first time camping. We loved that we could pitch up where we wanted and the fact there was proper toilets and a shower. the staff were all so lovely, they really engaged with the children particularly the young girl with the horses who kept them occupied for hours and hours. I saw another young man help a family setting up their tent he seemed to have such a great attitude and all staff answered any questions we had about animals or activities. My family all loved spending time with the animals the play area was also a big hit. I can not recommend this place enough and we will be returning in the summer holidays!

Weekend Trip to Star Field Camping

Lovely place. The compost toilets, showers and washing-up area were all clean, although I did miss having a rubbish bin near the sinks. The pitches in the Pixies Paddock field are unmarked - when we arrived, someone else had pitched a tent in our designated spot, but the owner was very relaxed and said we were free to camp anywhere. The Pixies Paddock field was lovely and quieter, but you have to walk to the other field to wash dishes (it wasn’t far away). Also, there is not a proper sink to brush your teeth like in the other field - only a tap with drinking water. A brand-new shower was built in our field just before our arrival. Each field only has two showers (they are nice and hot), but they were enough since it wasn’t busy. We had plenty of space for the children to run around and play. There’s a café on-site that we didn’t use, but it was nice to have the option. The other campers were lovely and our Flat-Coated Retriever had a fantastic time. Great value for money overall. We had a lovely weekend and would highly recommend it!

2 nights at Star Field Camping

We really liked the field, our pitch was sheltered and had the sun for a bit of the evening. It was a lovely campsite with nice coffee shop and farm shop. We did the walk to Bedgebury too.

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Just had the most incredible overnight bivvy experience at KT9 Barn – a true haven for anyone bikepacking or wild camping near London. From the moment I reached out, Charlie’s communication was faultless – warm, welcoming, and full of useful details to make the most of the stay. You instantly get the sense that he genuinely cares about the experience you’re going to have. Already planning my next stay.

2 nights at Tomkins Farm

Before we arrived the communication was effective and succinct. We found the property easily and our pitch. We had chosen a ‘glamping’ tent that was clean, spacious and well appointed. It was a beautiful, green, calm and quiet area. Philip gave us a couple of great tips on where to eat locally.

Charley

3 weeks ago

3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

Had a brilliant time! Would highly recommend to a couple wanting to get away from it all. We loved our stay and will definitely go back

3 nights at Freedom Farm Camping

This is a lovely rural campsite. We stayed for three nights, visiting Cambridge during the days and enjoying the nature and quiet when we got back to the tent. Facilities are clean and well-designed. The owners are very friendly and were quick to help when when we couldn't find our firepit. A wonderful place to relax--recommended.

5 nights at Tomkins Farm

We loved staying at Tomkin's Farm! We were there for 5 nights and, despite some stormy weather, it was brilliant. Philip's site has the perfect location; we love all the llamas, sheep, the camels and the wildlife. We also really enjoyed the breakfasts, burgers and pizzas cooked on the campsite! Best egg in a bap ever :)

Available this weekend

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Chigborough Farm

48 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents130 acres · Essex, East Anglia

Boating, biking and bell tent glamping on a farm near the Blackwater Estuary, where good food and walkable pubs are also on the menu.

100%

(18)

Constable Park

17 units · Glamping, Tents4 acres · Suffolk, East Anglia

A holiday and leisure park ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, with premium glamping options

95%

(60)

Dernwood Farm Wild Camping

17 units · Glamping, Tents70 acres · East Sussex, South East England

Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands

91%

(16)

Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

39 units · Motorhomes, Tents15 acres · Sudbury, Suffolk, East Anglia

Update we allow cars ad camper and this land has a special energy. Set in the valley with the hillside gives 360 degrees view of natural landscape. Wethersfield Eco Project is the historic parkland of Wethersfield Manor. Veteren Oaks and Sequoia Grace the woodland hillside with badgers and foxes in the sandy hills, buzzards and kites soaring the ponds full of dragonfly. Great space for a family or romantic getaway or larger group party. If you are a group under 10 people please expect to share the space with others but we'll ensure you have your own private area! Bring your sound system and have your own party or event. Music must be off after 11pm as houses are 500metres away. Price is per adult 16 or over per night 11am to 11am checkout. Late checkout or day rate til 5pm is 10 per adult. Kids free. Dogs are 5 pounds.

The Deer Park Glamping,

1 unit · Glamping15 acres · Tenterden, England

How does Glamping with a herd of privately owned deer sound to you? Deer Park Glamping is on our private 15-acre deer park, nestled within an "area of outstanding beauty", located in a village called Benenden, Kent You will be camping amongst our own herd of Fallow Deer 🦌 *** Before we go any further, I need to let you know that, unfortunately, we do not allow children, groups aged under 21 and pets, due to the deer and lake *** Although just a 90-minute drive from South East London or a 45-minute drive to the Eurotunnel terminal, it's a wonderful natural space to unwind and watch the shy herd of deer pass by your Bell Tent! If you want to explore the area, there is plenty to do; 🛍 The thriving town of Tenterden is a 7-minute drive, with small boutiques, pubs and a supermarket. 🏖 Camber Sands our local beach is just a 25-minute drive ⚓️ The beautiful harbour town of Rye and all its beautiful antique shops and boutiques is a 25-minute drive 🏰 Leeds Castle, Bodiam Castle and Scotney Castle are all within a 20-minute drive 🍾 We are surrounded by an abundance of incredible wineries including Chapel Down, Gusbourne and Tillingham What you will find at "Deerpark Glamping"; 🦌 Fully Set Up Bell Tents 🦌 15 Acres of land 🦌 3 acres of woodland 🦌 1 Acre lake 🦌 A privately owned herd of Fallow Deer 🦌 6 Sassy Geece 🦌 2 Compost Toilets 🦌 2 Cubicle Showers 🦌 3 Fire Pits for cooking (shared between tents) 🦌 Parking is within the deer park (we don't recommend bringing your Ferrari or Porches 🤪) 🦌 Deck Chairs As we want to keep the tranquil and calm feel to the space, therefore, we have limited the total occupancy to 10 Bell Tents (20 guests in total), if you are looking for an exclusive hire option, please let us know in advance and we can potentially increase the numbers. Accommodation comprises 5m Bell Tents, you can choose between double or single beds, occupancy is set at 2, however, we can go to 3 on request. There is a minimum 2-night booking. The inside interior has a "Boho" feel to it, with sheepskin rugs, throws and Moroccan neutral pouffes, chandelier lighting and outside festoons and bunting. All comes fully set up, equipped with Beds, Linen, Lighting, Soft Furnishing. The lake is fresh water and is stocked with trout, if cold water lake swimming is your thing, head in or why not bring your own paddle board? We supply 3 Firepits to be shared with 3-4 other tents, where you can cook your food or keep warm. This is completely off grid.. and your time to get closer to nature.

Star Hosts in Epping Forest

100%

(5)

Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

1 unit · Tent3 acres · England

Hill Top Farm Wild Camping has just one pitch but the folk here keep the grass trimmed for easy pitching and you can park right next to the pitch. It's a tiny Wild Camping site with no running water, toilets or showers. What Noakes Meadow does have is plenty of space for you to enjoy and camp fires are definitely allowed. A wheelbarrow of fire wood can be purchased for £10 Cash/Paypal/Bank Transfer on arrival. This site is far away from the madding crowds though close to the M20 and A20 for easy access. A mere 10-minute stroll along the road is a fab 16th-century country inn for food and pints. On the other hand you could always fire up a barbie and sizzle some sausages or grab a take away from the chippie 7 minutes away in the nearby village of Lenham. This wild camping site operates a leave no trace policy so be prepared to bag up and take everything with you when you leave.

97%

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Frittenden Orchard

40 units · Motorhomes, Tents12 acres · Cranbrook, England

Frittenden Orchard offers a unique camping experience nestled among fruit trees on a Kent farm near Staplehurst. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect: Accommodation: Grass pitches for tents, touring caravans, and motorhomes are available within the orchards. Off-grid camping provides a back-to-nature experience. Wildlife and Nature: Guests can explore the 11-acre woodland wildlife haven surrounding the camping fields, offering opportunities to spot foxes, badgers, and deer. Activities: Start your day with morning tai chi classes, suitable for beginners. Diane your host can suggest local walks and sightseeing activities. Food: Free-range eggs from the farm's hens and freshly picked strawberries are available. Guests can also bring grills for barbecues or visit the nearby village pub for meals. Facilities: While there's no electricity on-site, amenities include wifi, ice-pack freezing, and charging facilities for devices. Local Area: Frittenden village, just five minutes' drive away, Sisinghurst village ha offers a convenient store for locally sourced produce. Additionally the local pub is within walking distance with locally sourced ingredients. Sisinghurst castle - walking distance or 5 mins drive Restrictions and Regulations: The site does not have shower facilities. Certain dog breeds listed in the Dangerous Dogs Act are not accepted

100%

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Finchingfield Lavender & Camping

9 units · Motorhomes, Tents9 acres · Finchingfield, England

Luxury camping and glamping pitches within a wildflower meadow. Private loo per pitch, fire pit with BBQ Grill & a picnic bench. Our North Essex hideaway is perfect for a country retreat under the stars. Just over an hour away from London, located in a rural setting outside the chocolate box village of Finchingfield with tea rooms and three great independent pubs. We are a micro Lavender farm home to 3.5 kms of hand planted Lavandula × intermedia 'Lavender Grosso'. Our campers and glampers have unlimited access to our lavender field which overlooks rolling fields and sunset views, perfect for a relaxing evening amongst the purple blooms

97%

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Wild Boar Wood Campsite

9 units · Glamping5 acres · Haywards Heath, England

Wild woodland glamping in the heart of Sussex with fires

95%

(31)

The Sunset Tree

30 units · Glamping, Tents3 acres · West Sussex, South East England

A sociable, tents-only, pop-up campsite, with a good village pub and playground on the doorstep

12 top campsites in Epping Forest

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The Barn KT9

22 units · Glamping, Tents3 acres · Greater London, South East England

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

90%

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Penn Meadow Farm

50 units · Motorhomes, Tents145 acres · Beaconsfield, England

Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England) Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies. We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening. The site includes; Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked. Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up Running drinking water Shared open kitchen Fires allowed BBQ's allowed To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules: Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone. Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them. Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space. Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space. Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm. Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached. Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment. Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol. We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.

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Hook Farm Campsite

18 units · Tents10 acres · West Sussex, South East England

Blissfully back-to-basics camping in the heart of the West Sussex High Weald

Cherry Orchard Farm

3 units · Tents60 acres · Leighton Buzzard, England

Cherry Orchard is a 60 acre Conservation Farm surrounded by heathland and woodland with miles of beautiful walking. This is an tranquil get-away and chance to soak in nature and completely unwind. This campsite is dedicated to people who want to learn about nature and wildlife and to embrace the great outdoors. We advise you leave your phone in the car, which is parked away from the campsite and really try to become one with nature during your stay. There is a good selection of pubs and restaurants in nearby Woburn (next to Woburn Abbey & Safari) if you want to see some sights.

87%

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Daisy May’s Farm

10 units · Motorhomes, Tents20 acres · Bishop's Stortford, England

Our pop up campsite is set in 20 acres on a not for profit community farm. Come and join us in the great outdoors! Help collect the eggs, feed the chickens and milk the goat! There is always lots going on at Daisy May’s Farm! Children’s play areas, paddle stream, woodland walks and lots more! PITCH FEE INCLUDES ENTRY TO THE FARM & ALL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS! Open 7 days a week. Coffee Cabin and Ollie’s Food Hut also serving hot food (Weekends & school holiday 10-3pm) Local pub - 5 mins walk Golf Course (crazy golf, top golf, 9 hole course, bar and food) - 5 mins walk Shop/post office/chip shop - 10 mins walk Toilets & shower ; hot gas shower available but we are a basic wild, mostly off grid site. No concrete heated toilet blocks I’m afraid! (Showers unavailable in Winter months) There will be mud. Bring your wellies! Drinking water and bins available. Bring a torch for walking around the site at night. The site is off grid and the toilet lights are solar operated! CARAVANS - ONLY BOOKABLE MAY - SEPTEMBERTENTS - CAMPER VANS - MOTORHOMES WELCOME ALL YEAR (all pitches are the same. No need to specify which type of unit you are booking) We look forwards to welcoming you soon!

94%

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Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

40 units · Glamping, Tents5 acres · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Pitches, bell tents and a gypsy caravan on the outskirts of Canterbury

100%

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Riverside Farm experience camp fire

28 units · Glamping, Tents60 acres · England

Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large meadow pitches with fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team. Seasonal activities such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.

100%

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Laleham Camping Club

79 units · Motorhomes, Tents7 acres · England

Our 100 pitch campsite is located in the protected Green Belt area to the west of London. With the River Thames on one side and Laleham Park on all others, the beautiful surroundings are hard to beat given the proximity to the capital. The campsite is run voluntarily by its members, with day-to-day matters being handled by an elected committee and wardens.

99%

(55)

Glassenbury Camping

33 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents12 acres · Cranbrook, England

Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country

96%

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Tomkins Farm

42 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents15 acres · North Chailey, England

Relaxed camping beside a lake on an East Sussex farm, with alpacas, llamas, and camels

94%

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The Meadow @ Waples Mill

12 units · Tents8 acres · Dunmow, England

Spacious grass pitches in the green Essex countryside A 15-minute drive to Chelmsford; 40 minutes to Audley End Tractor rides on site; firepits provided for campfires. Rural walks, How about proper farm activities like tractor rides (ask site staff for details)? The place to find all this is The Meadow at Waples Mill, an Essex farm site between Chelmsford and Dunmow (and about 15 minutes’ drive from both). This family-friendly site is handy for walks on the Essex Way and other local footpaths, and tractor and trailer rides around the farm are organised on alternate days to give guests a glimpse into agricultural life. Activities complete for the day, it's time to chill out, and that should be easy here – all pitches have access to toilets and hot showers in a trailer close by, and firepits are provided so you can have a safe campfire (with wood available to buy on site and a great farm shop 10 minutes’ drive away for fireside snacks). Pitches themselves are large, well kept and well spaced within a meadow that backs onto the River Roding. Dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of places to take them for a walk nearby. London folk looking for a quick escape to the countryside, this is a place to bear in mind – it’s only about an hour and quarter by road from the city.

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Freedom Farm Camping

30 units · Tents70 acres · Newmarket, England

Eco permanent pasture farm with 12 mile views across the countryside in West Suffolk near Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds and Cambridge. Say goodbye to the road whilst camping privately and securely in 70 acres of paddocks edged with post and rail fencing. Footpaths accessed directly from the site to explore further afield. We produce most of our own food and have a herd of Dexter grass fed beef cows grazing. Beef and vegetables available for sale depending on the season and availability. Camping hammocks also welcome in the wood. We also have equestrian facilities including a manege and it is possible to bring a horse by arrangement in summer. We have a guide available for hacking locally and a resident BS qualified instructor. Please contact for details.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Epping Forest guide

Overview

Forest walks don’t come more impressive than Epping Forest, with 12 miles of rambling woodlands stretching north of London. Venture into the trees to explore miles of walking, cycling, and horseback riding trails; spot native wildlife; or play a game of golf at one of the two courses. Campers staying at Epping Forest can also explore the adjoining Lee Valley Regional Park, where activities include fly fishing and boat cruises along the Lea River. For a break from the forest, slip away to a country pub on the forest outskirts, or hop aboard for a ride on the Epping Ongar steam railway.

Notable campgrounds

Best for exploring: Debden House Campsite has spacious tent sites with fire pits, electric hook-up for caravans and campervans, and direct access to the forest’s hiking trails.
Best for peace and quiet: Lee Valley Campsite is on the western edge of the forest and has grass pitches with or without electric hook-up, as well as cozy camping pods and tents for hire.
Best for a wild camping experience: Lee Valley Almost Wild Campsite lets you get back to nature, with minimal amenities, quiet woodland tent pitches, and hammocks swinging from the trees.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Epping Forest campsites and caravan sites can book up quickly, especially in July and August, and during school holidays. Early bookings are essential if you want to visit these times.
Unpowered tent pitches are more likely to be available without a reservation, but it’s still best to call ahead.
You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation; some sites ask for the full payment prior to arrival.
Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campsite. Some campsites open from May through September, while others stay open year-round.

When to go

Accessible year-round, it’s worth revisiting Epping Forest throughout its changing seasons. Autumn is magical under the colorful canopy of fall foliage, while springtime sees wildlife at its most active and bursts of wildflowers. Visiting on a weekday means you’ll avoid the crowds, but the park’s walking trails are always busy in July-August, as well as during school holidays. Pack sturdy hiking boots if visiting after rainfall, as the forest trails can get muddy.

Know before you go

Epping Forest is on the border of Essex and Hertfordshire, about an hour’s drive north of London.
Central line tubes run to Epping Forest from London, stopping at Ashurst, Beaulieu Road, Brockenhurst, Hinton Admiral, Lymington, New Milton, Sway, and Totton.
There are about 30 car parks located throughout the park, many of which are pay and display.
Epping Forest Visitor Centres are located at Chingford and High Beach, where you’ll also find restrooms and cafés.
Wild camping and overnight parking are not permitted anywhere within the park. Fires and BBQs are also off-limits, except on private camping and caravan parks.
Epping Forest has several accessible trails, and all car parks are accessible.